Ekphrasis

"Nude with a Mask" and its companion piece, ‘Reclining Nude with a Violin" are outstanding works of art in a larger Bacchanalian series by Varriano.

On display in this painting is an extraordinary sensitivity for the female form. The model is depicted in a semi-reclining pose that emphasizes the languid sensuality of her body.

Varriano possesses a collection of African masks that he has acquired through the years. It was a brilliant gesture for him to pose the model in such a way as to express that she has just removed the mask to boldly engage the viewer.

The colors are intense, almost acidic. His use of the complimentary pair, formed by the colors on the green wall and the red sofa is exemplary in the quality of their hues. The sharp contrast of light and shadow delivers an uncanny, surreal mood to the painting.